MICHIGAN: The question of how to replace the energy from retiring power plants is playing out on a much more urgent timeline on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. (Midwest Energy News)
OHIO: Another Ohio utility is seeking a guaranteed income for some of its older coal plants. (Columbus Dispatch)
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SOLAR: A Wisconsin utility backs away from a plan to change the way solar customers are compensated, but is still pursuing other rate changes. (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
ALSO: A Minnesota rural co-op unveils its new community solar project, and a Minnesota farmer’s solar array is a highlight of a regional energy tour. (Winona Daily News, New Ulm Journal)
UTILITIES: Wisconsin regulators agree to extend their review of the proposed We EnergiesWisconsin Energy/Integrys merger, North Dakota utilities dispute who should serve new businesses, and how electric cars can help head off the utility “death spiral.” (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Bismarck Tribune, The Economist)
TRANSMISSION: The Chicago Tribune takes a closer look at Clean Line transmission projects, and South Dakota co-ops are using state and federal funds to bury power lines damaged in recent storms. (Chicago Tribune, KELO)
OIL AND GAS:
• Cleanup of North Dakota’s largest pipeline spill is expected to take at least another year. (Bismarck Tribune)
• Enbridge highlights its conservation efforts. (Times of Northwest Indiana)
• Shale revenue helps cut taxes in an Ohio watershed district. (Associated Press)
• Tensions increase between Michigan landowners and a natural gas pipeline crew. (MLive)
• Why big oil companies are backing away from renewable energy. (EnergyWire)
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TRANSPORTATION: Advocates say Wisconsin is overestimating future traffic levels when planning transportation projects. (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
COMMENTARY: Why Warren Buffett is spending billions on solar and wind, a carbon tax could be good for Iowa, and can Minnesota be energy independent? (Motley Fool, Des Moines Register, Minneapolis Star Tribune)